Cost Accountant / Assistant Plant Controller

Position Summary

The Cost Accountant / Assistant Plant Controller is responsible for managing cost accounting functions, supporting plant-level financial reporting, and assisting in operational financial analysis. This role ensures accurate product costing, inventory valuation, budget control, and financial compliance while partnering closely with plant operations to improve cost efficiency and profitability.

Key Responsibilities

Cost Accounting & Inventory Control

• Maintain and update standard costs (material, labor, overhead).
• Analyze manufacturing variances (usage, purchase price, labor, overhead).
• Perform inventory valuation, reconciliation, and cycle count oversight.
• Support month-end and year-end closing activities related to plant accounting.
• Monitor and report on cost of goods sold (COGS).

Financial Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare and review plant-level financial statements.
• Assist in budget preparation, forecasting, and financial planning.
• Provide detailed cost analysis to support operational decision-making.
• Develop and maintain cost models and profitability analysis by product line.

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to GAAP and company financial policies.
• Maintain strong internal controls over inventory and manufacturing costs.
• Support internal and external audits.

Operational Support

• Partner with production, procurement, and supply chain teams to improve cost efficiency.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and process improvements.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.).

Qualifications

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in cost accounting or manufacturing finance.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment required.

Technical Skills:

• Strong knowledge of standard costing and variance analysis.
• Experience with ERP systems (Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or similar).
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Knowledge of GAAP and inventory accounting principles.

Soft Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

Reporting Structure

• Reports to: Operations Controller
• Works closely with: Operations, Supply Chain, Production, Corporate Finance

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Inventory accuracy
• Variance reporting timeliness and accuracy
• Budget adherence
• Cost reduction initiatives

Audit findings and compliance metrics